13-Year-Old Makes USLC Debut, Becoming Youngest-Ever Pro On An American Sports Team

It’ll be interesting to see how his development progresses over the next 30 years.
October 9, 2021

Real Salt Lake Academy's Axel Kei made his professional debut at age 13 on Friday night in Herriman, Utah.

The Ivory Coast-born striker was a second-half substitute for the USL Championship side Real Monarchs, entering in the 61st minute of a 0-0 draw against Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC. 

At 13 years, nine months and nine days old, Kei is believed to be the youngest-ever player to make a professional appearance in American team sports.

In July, Kei led RSL Academy to the Under 15 MLS NEXT Cup championship with a 2-0 win against Philadelphia Union Academy. He won the Golden Boot at the event with five goals.